Sapient Corporate Finance has announced the appointment of Steven Kenee as director.
Kenee has over 21 years of experience in advising, investing in, and raising capital for companies, including board experience as an investor, executive, and non-executive director.
He was previously a partner and head of the hospitality and leisure team at Downing LLP, an investment manager with £1.8bn of assets under management. He led the firm’s private equity investments in the pub and bar sector, with deals including Oakman Inns, Antic, Uphan, Redcomb, and Pub People.
He was also previously chief investment officer for Oakman Inns, helping the premium pub operator navigate the pandemic, raising significant debt and equity, and supporting the growth of the business from 24 to 38 sites.
Kenee is currently non-executive director on the board of wedding venue operator Artemis Venues.
He will work alongside fellow director Robert Cockcroft and partners Peter Hansen and Fraser Anderson to strengthen the business’ senior-led advisory approach.
Kenee commented: “Sapient’s deep market knowledge, sector expertise and ability to execute successful M&A transactions are well known. Having been a client of the firm on a number of occasions, I have first-hand experience of the professionalism and quality that runs throughout the firm, and I am excited to be joining such a highly regarded advisory boutique.”
Fraser Anderson and Peter Hansen commented: “Steven has held senior leadership roles as both an investor and operator. The insight gained from these roles, combined with his ability to build strong relationships and structure deals across debt and equity adds further depth to the firm’s existing expertise and will be of huge value to our clients.”
